Budget-Friendly 2.5-Day Temples and Culture Tour: Tirupati to Chennai, Kanchipuram, and Madurai

Day 1: Temple Visits

Tirupati, India on March 28, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan)

Start your day with a traditional South Indian breakfast, known for its idlis, dosa, and excellent filter coffee. Open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Tirumala Temple

One of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India, the Tirumala Temple is known for its magnificent architecture and the divine presence of Lord Venkateswara. Expect to spend about 2-3 hours here.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Travel to Chennai

Take a taxi or bus from Tirupati to Chennai, which takes approximately 3 hours.
INR500, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Saravana Bhavan

Enjoy a budget-friendly South Indian thali at this famous vegetarian restaurant. Open from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
INR300, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Marina Beach

Visit the iconic Marina Beach, perfect for an afternoon stroll or sunset view. You can spend an hour relaxing here.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is renowned for its impressive Dravidian architecture. Plan to spend about 1 hour here.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel Modern Manor

A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean accommodations in Chennai. Ideal for unwinding after a long day.
INR1500 per night, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel Saravana Bhavan

Return for dinner to Saravana Bhavan for more delicious vegetarian options. Open until 10:30 PM.
INR350, 1 hour
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Day 2: Temple Hopping

Kanchipuram, India on March 29, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Modern Manor

Choose a simple breakfast at the hotel or head to a nearby eatery for some dosa and chutney. Timing varies by hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Travel to Kanchipuram

Travel by local bus or taxi to Kanchipuram, which takes about an hour.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

This temple is one of the largest in Kanchipuram and is dedicated to Lord Shiva, featuring impressive Gopurams. Spend around 1 hour exploring.
Free, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Kailasanathar Temple

Known for its exquisite architecture and ancient carvings, this temple is a must-see and is quieter compared to others. Expect to spend another hour.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a simple meal at a local eatery serving traditional Kanchipuram dishes. Look for thali options. Open from noon to 3:00 PM.
INR250, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Return to Chennai

Travel back to Chennai by bus or taxi. This will take roughly an hour.
INR300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Fort St. George

Visit this historic fort, now housing a museum and the St. Mary’s Church, showcasing colonial architecture. Spend about 1.5 hours here.
INR100, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Santhome Basilica

A landmark church situated by the beach, with stunning neo-Gothic architecture. Allocate about 30 minutes for this visit.
Free, 0.5 hours

5:00 PM

Travel to Madurai

Head to Madurai via train or bus (the journey takes around 8 hours). You can grab dinner on the way if needed.
INR500, 8 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Madurai, India on March 30, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Heritage

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this budget hotel with options like idli, pongal, and fresh fruits. Open from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM.
INR250, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple

An architectural marvel, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and is renowned for its intricate sculptures and vast complex. Expect to spend 2-3 hours here.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

This grand palace showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture and houses beautiful artefacts. Spend an hour exploring the grounds.
INR100, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at a Local Vegetarian Restaurant

Savour local dishes at a nearby vegetarian restaurant, known for its Madurai meals. Try the parotta and spicy curry.
INR250, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Nayakkar Palace Museum

Explore the museum that houses various exhibits related to the history of Madurai and its kings.
INR50, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Shopping at Madurai's Local Markets

Spend your last few hours exploring the vibrant local markets for souvenirs and local crafts.
Free activity; budget for shopping, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Departure from Madurai

Head to the bus or train station according to your onward journey.
Variable, Variable
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